St. Nicholas Symbols

A number of symbols help us recognize St. Nicholas. They developed from his most popular stories and customs.

Miter A special tall pointed hat worn by a bishop. The miter is a general symbol for bishops, but it is unique to St. Nicholas among holiday gift-givers. (also mitre)

Crozier A hooked staff carried by a bishop; represents a shepherd's staff as the bishop is to be the shepherd of the people, as Jesus is the Good Shepherd. Again, a crozier is a general symbol for bishops, but unique to Nicholas among gift-givers. (also crosier)

Three Gold Balls Represent the gold given to provide dowries for the impoverished maidens. Nicholas' gold balls became the pawnbroker's symbol. Sometimes oranges or apples are used to represent the gold.

Gold Coins Another way of representing the gold given as dowries.

Money Bags Usually three, but sometimes one, represent the gold thrown into the house to provide dowry money.

Three Maidens The three young women who received the gold dowry money.

Children In Tub Show Nicholas as the protector of children, from the story rescuing young children or students from the evil butcher or innkeeper. Usually three children are in the tub, but sometimes only two are present.

Children Often shown with St. Nicholas because he is their patron saint.

Ship Symbolizes the close association St. Nicholas has with sailors, ships, and the sea.

Anchor Represents Nicholas' relationship with ships and sailors.

Book This large book is the Book of the Gospels or the Holy Scriptures. In some European gift-giving traditions the large book is the record book of children's behavior.

Shoes Children put carrots, turnips, or hay in their shoes for St. Nicholas' horse or donkey. St. Nicholas replaces them with treats. So shoes filled with things for his horse or donkey or shoes with children's treats are symbols for St. Nicholas.

Which symbols can you find in these Saint Nicholas pictures?

Link

Saint Nicholas: The Iconography by Richard Stracke, Christian Iconography 
Excellent information on the origin of St. Nicholas symbols

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